PLANS to revamp a run-down area of Thornaby will be discussed by councillors tonight.

In November 2001, consultants were appointed by Stockton Borough Council to carry out a study into the future of Mandale.

The study has now finished, and members of the council's cabinet will tonight discuss the best way to address the issues raised.

A report to the meeting says: "Mandale is an area experiencing physical and socio-economic decline and consequently requires intervention if it is to become a sustainable community."

The study identifies a number of options for the regeneration of the estate, but identified large scale demolition and redevelopment by private developers and a registered social landlord as the option preferred by the community.

This would affect about 570 homes, with tenants having to be moved.

The report says: "The housing in Mandale is predominately council owned, with traditional and non-traditional houses of varying age.

"The estate is causing particular concern due to signs of major physical decay. There is a feeling within the area that the estate is in a spiral of decline."

"The area is particularly deprived in terms of child poverty, income, employment and health."

Cabinet members are being asked to consider the plan as a basis for a detailed redevelopment proposal, which will then go out to public consultation.

They are also being asked to agree to include the former Dene School playing fields as part of the proposal.

The report says: "The Dene School playing fields are important to the success of the regeneration of the area as they are an attractive site for a private developer."

If the plan to demolish homes goes ahead, the 104 right-to-buy residents will be entitled to the market value of their properties, plus ten per cent of that value as home loss compensation, and an allowance for disturbance.

It is anticipated that the majority of owner occupiers will want to move.

The overall cost of the redevelopment has yet to be established.